At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive business development across Europe, targeting biotech and pharma sponsors.
- Company: Dynamic CRO with a strong reputation and growth momentum.
- Benefits: Visible role with clear progression into senior leadership and global expansion opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on growth strategy in a competitive landscape.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in Business Development within a CRO and a proven track record.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment focused on ambitious career progression.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We have recently partnered with a full-service Contract Research Organisation that is looking to appoint a Director of Business Development to play a key role in driving its next phase of growth. This is a high-impact opportunity for a commercially driven BD professional who wants to step into a visible, strategic role with clear progression into senior leadership as the organisation continues to scale across Europe and Globally.
The Opportunity
Reporting into senior leadership, this role will focus on expanding the company’s European footprint while supporting longer-term plans for global growth. You’ll be trusted to own relationships, influence strategy, and help shape how the business competes and wins in a competitive CRO landscape.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead new business development activities across Europe, targeting biotech and pharma sponsors
- Own and grow a strong pipeline of opportunities across multiple therapeutic areas
- Drive end-to-end BD processes, from lead generation through to proposal development and deal closure
- Partner closely with operations, proposals, and senior leadership to ensure commercial alignment
- Represent the organisation at industry conferences and networking events
- Contribute to longer-term global expansion initiatives as the business scales
Candidate Profile
- 3+ years’ experience in Business Development within a CRO environment
- Proven track record of winning new business across European markets
- Strong understanding of full-service CRO offerings and sponsor expectations
- Comfortable operating in a growth-oriented, entrepreneurial environment
- Experience with global accounts or international expansion is a strong advantage
- Ambitious, commercially minded, and motivated by long-term career progression
Why This Role?
- Join a growing, full-service CRO with a strong reputation and momentum
- Highly visible role with direct influence on growth strategy
- Clear pathway into a broader commercial or leadership position
- Opportunity to help shape European growth with global expansion on the horizon
Business Development Manager employer: Established Search
Contact Detail:
Established Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry conferences and events where you can meet potential employers and other BD professionals. Building relationships in person can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers, share your insights on the CRO landscape and how you can help them grow. This will demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your excitement about the role and how you can contribute to their growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Business Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in CRO environments and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive growth in European markets.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for business development and how your skills align with our goals for expansion across Europe and beyond.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your impact! Use specific examples of how you've successfully driven new business or contributed to growth in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape our future!
How to prepare for a job interview at Established Search
✨Know Your CRO Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into the Contract Research Organisation (CRO) sector. Understand the key players, current trends, and challenges in the European market. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to the company's growth.
✨Showcase Your Success Stories
Prepare specific examples of your past successes in business development, especially within the CRO environment. Highlight how you’ve driven new business, built relationships, and closed deals. Use metrics to quantify your achievements; numbers speak volumes!
✨Align with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with the company’s mission and long-term goals. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their strategy for European expansion and global growth. Showing that you understand their vision will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Engage and Ask Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s future plans, culture, and expectations for the role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.